NFL Suspends Greg Hardy For 10-Games Without Pay

The news is not good for Dallas Cowboys defensive end Greg Hardy. The NFL has suspended him for 10 games without pay for having engaged in conduct deemed detrimental to the league’s policy. He will now be missing the first 10 games of the 2015 regular season for the Dallas Cowboys.

According to reports from sources, the Defensive end will be appealing the decision. Currently, he is eligible to return to the field from Cowboys’ week 12 game scheduled against his former team, the Carolina Panthers. Hardy played for the Panthers from 2010 to 2014.

The decision though taking may surprise, yet did not come in haste. It came after a two-month long investigation by the NFL into Hardy’s alleged domestic violence incident in 2014. It involved his ex-girlfriend Nicole Holder. The NFL concluded that there was credible evidence to prove the NFL player’s conduct was in violation of the NFL policies.

"The NFL's investigation concluded that Hardy violated the Personal Conduct Policy by using physical force against Nicole Holder in at least four instances," the statement read.
"The net effect of these acts was that Ms. Holder was severely traumatized and sustained a range of injuries, including bruises and scratches on her neck, shoulders, upper chest, back, arms and feet. “The use of physical force under the circumstances present here, against a woman substantially smaller than you and in the presence of powerful, military-style assault weapons, constitutes a significant act of violence in violation of the Personal Conduct Policy." Commissioner Goodell wrote in his decision.

The NFL also failed in contacting Holder despite numerous efforts. Holder’s lack of availability could possibly have been the result of her reaching a civil settlement with Hardy.

The Cowboys were expecting a six-game suspension at the most. A four-game ban was all that had been expected. Hardy, who was set to receive $9.25 million, will now be earning less than half of that amount.

Immediately after the suspension was announced, Cowboys owner issued a statement saying:

"This suspension is something that we anticipated prior to Greg's signing, and we respect the Commissioner's ruling. Our organization understands the very serious nature of this matter. We will use our resources -- work closely with Greg and with the league -- to ensure a positive outcome."

For all those who love watching Hardy in action, all hope is not lost. He may still win his appeal or have his suspension reduced. To Watch NFLGames this season, opt for NFL game pass coupons that will allow you enjoy games at a lower price.